Hypothyroidism occurs when your thyroid glands don’t produceenoughhormones. This can cause a variety of symptoms likeweight gain, fatigue, constipation, and much more.
So, wondering what to eat to help anunderactive thyroid? It turns out, nutritional deficiencies seriously contribute to these hypothyroidism symptoms.Iodine, selenium, vitamin D,andzincare four key nutrients that help to maintain healthy thyroid function and regular hormone production. Taking charge of your hypothyroidism diet ensures you’ll get all the right nutrients for your body in order to manage your symptoms and boost the thyroid naturally.
While everyone’s hypothyroidism experience is unique to their own body, here are7 simple foodsthat could help improve your thyroid symptoms.
1. Apples
Remember the old saying that “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”? That should be changed to “An apple a day keeps your thyroid symptoms at bay.” Apples help to detoxify your body of metals like mercury, which have been shown to negatively affect thyroid function. Along with that, apples are rich in iodine which is a building block to thyroid hormone production.
2. Eggs
Eggs are full of selenium, iodine, and vitamin D which helps regulate thyroid hormones. While the egg white contains lots of protein, make sure you’re consuming the full egg because the egg yolk is where you’ll get all those hormone regulating nutrients. A cool breakfast idea to help improve hypothyroidism symptoms!
3. Nuts
Brazil nuts are very selenium-rich! One or two nuts a day are enough to meet your daily requirement. Nuts are a source of iron and zinc, which are important for maintaining healthy thyroid function. Be mindful not to over-consume these nuts, especially if you’re eating lots of other selenium rich foods in your diet.
4. Yogurt
Yogurt contains iodine and is often fortified with vitamin D which can act as an anti-inflammatory and immunity-boosting nutrient. Yogurt also has magnesium and potassium which is important for regulating your metabolism and blood-pressure. If you’re on thyroid medications, make sure to take it a few hours apart from any calcium intake as it interferes with the medication absorption! Next time you’re grocery shopping, grab a low-fat, vitamin D rich yogurt!
5. Salmon
Salmon is a champion amongst fish when it comes to helping thyroid health. Salmon is full of healthy fats, like Omega-3 and iodine which help reduce thyroid inflammation. Additionally, salmon is a high-protein food, which has been cited to aid in weight loss by keeping your appetite in check.
6. Berries
Berries like strawberries and blueberries do a great job to detoxify the body. These small snacks are high in antioxidants which help to defend your body against free radicals which can harm your thyroid, cause fatigue, and trigger weight gain.
7. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are high in zinc which is critical to adequate thyroid hormone production. Additionally, since chickpeas are high in fibre, consuming these can help reduce constipation as a hypothyroidism symptom!
Remember that a healthy diet is one that is well-balanced and consumed in moderation. Listen to your body and explore your options. It may take some time but it’s worth it because you will find what works best for you!
At ThyForLife, we do our utmost to provide accurate information. For detailed medical information regarding diagnosis, treatment, and general practices please consult your healthcare professional. Always listen to the advice of your healthcare provider.
